Extraocular Muscles

The six tiny muscles that surround the eye and control its movements are known as the extraocular muscles (EOMs).  The primary function of the four rectus muscles is to control the eye's movements from left to right and up and down.  The two oblique muscles move the eye rotate the eyes inward and outward.

All six muscles work in unison to move the eye.  As one contracts, the opposing muscle relaxes, creating smooth movements.  In addition to the muscles of one eye working together in a coordinated effort, the muscles of both eyes work in unison so that the eyes are always aligned.